With over-the-counter and prescription medications, proper storage is essential for both the effectiveness of the drug and the safety of those in your household. Exposure to light, moisture, and extreme temperatures can adversely affect how a drug works and easily accessible pills are a potential poisoning hazard, especially for children who may not understand what they're getting into. To avoid medication accidents, follow smart storage tips for your over-the-counter and prescription meds.

How to Safely Store Medications

1. Keep All Medicines Out of a Child's Reach

Store your medicines on the highest shelf possible where children can't reach them. Avoid placing them on countertops, dressers, and nightstands or in drawers, as these spots are generally easier to access. Be sure medicines are out of sight as well so that the glimpse of a bottle won’t pique a curious child's interest. Put the medications behind other items and get in the habit of putting the bottles back in place after every use, even if you need to take the medication frequently throughout the day.

2. Always Replace Caps

Another good habit to form is to always listen for the click of the child-resistant cap every time you twist it back onto the bottle. This means that it is securely latched shut. At the same time, bear in mind that these caps are child-resistant, not childproof, so the bottles still need to be stored in a high, out-of-the-way spot that little hands can't get to. If you have issues opening caps and there are children in the home, purchase a rubber bottle opener to ensure a firm grip every time you open and replace the top.

3. Store Bottles in a Cool, Dry Place

Most people store their over-the-counter and prescription bottles in a bathroom medicine cabinet. These are ideal as they often have high shelves and latches that make them difficult for kids to open. But the air in a bathroom can get hot and damp, and medicines should be kept as cool and dry as possible. During showers or baths, open a window, run the ventilation fan, and crack the door open a bit, if possible, to keep bathroom temperatures from skyrocketing. Remove the cotton insert from pill bottles; these can draw in moisture. Ask your pharmacist for any specific storage requirements for prescriptions; for instance, some may need to be refrigerated.

Your pharmacist will answer all your questions and recommend the best and safest storage options for over-the-counter and prescription meds. Hickman's Pharmacy in Princeton, WV, has been serving Southern West Virginia since 1947. They offer new and refill prescriptions and a full line of medical equipment and supplies. Call (304) 425-2188 or visit them online to place an order.